Moroccan firm Panafsat and Thales Alenia Space recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop a Moroccan satellite communications system.
The system will provide very high-throughput services (VHTS) to 26 African countries, 23 of which are in French-speaking Africa. It will serve a combined population of over 550 million people across an area of 12 million square kilometres.
The MoU was signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco, in the presence of Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Moroccan minister of economy and finance, and Antoine Armand, French minister of economy, finance, and industry.
As part of the MoU, Thales Alenia Space will develop a very high-performance flexible satellite. Once in orbit, the satellite will provide high-speed internet, accelerating Africa’s digital transformation, according to the companies.
The parties said this would be accomplished by providing the connectivity needed for high-value-added services that benefit governments, businesses, and individuals.
They added that it would also assist in reducing the digital divide in rural and isolated communities.
Panafsat’s Chairman and CEO, Ahmed Toumi, commented: “This project is the next key stage in the digital transformation process and developing a digital economy in Morocco and across Africa.
It will change the lives of millions eager to benefit from Internet access and all the essential services they need. We are delighted to be able to draw on the outstanding expertise and capabilities of a partner like Thales Alenia Space. We look forward to working together on this major project, which will benefit the continent significantly.”
